Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
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